Quest welcomes second artist in residence

Quest welcomes second artist in residence

MIDLAND – Quest Art School and Gallery has welcomed Ruth Hurdle as its artist in residence for the month of February.
“I was thrilled to be chosen,” Hurdle stated in a press release. “To have such a wonderful, huge studio with great lighting located in the hub of where all culture in Midland happens – the (Midland Cultural Centre).”
The new artist-in-residence program is designed to provide opportunities for artists to create, explore, learn, and exchange ideas and insights within a multi-disciplinary environment.
Hurdle, a mural artist, is working on a 24-foot-long piece featuring a farming community. She was commissioned to paint the mural for an agricultural building at an educational facility near Walkerton. When completed, it will be the largest mural Hurdle has designed and painted herself.
“I am so happy and thrilled to be doing what I am most passionate about – painting big,” she said. “I am in my element when the brushes are moving, the colourful paint is blending, and I am creating something that makes me and people smile.”
Hurdle has worked as an artist and art teacher for approximately 12 years, all while juggling a part-time job as volunteer, member and customer service co-ordinator at Quest. She said she fell into the mural business almost by accident.
“I had decided to start my own business,” she said. “I started by doing portraiture and commissioned painting, but I needed to have my business offer more products to clients with more potential to make an income.
“The natural progression for me was to do large-scale paintings on people's walls, in their children’s bedrooms, offices and in local schools.”
In 2008, Hurdle created the first brand-new mural for the Town of Midland in almost 10 years. Hurdle is also known for her ability to restore murals, and has worked for the towns of Collingwood, Tiverton, Lucknow and Georgetown.
Members of the public are invited to visit Hurdle at Quest, located in the Midland Cultural Centre at 333 King St., on Wednesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays. She also has some of her fine art paintings on display.
The gallery is open Monday to Friday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. For more information, visit www.questart.ca.